The widening of Randall Parkway between Independence Boulevard and South College Road will get underway Wednesday, and it could come with some traffic delays.

According to a City of Wilmington release, the first phase of the project will involve clearing vegetation along the entire corridor and may lead to some slowdowns.

After the vegetation is cleared, roadwork will begin at Independence and Randall Parkway, working its way along the Parkway toward College Road. Work will take place between Independence and Kerr Avenue until about June, when it will hop over the intersection and begin on the segment between Kerr and College Road.

The intersection at Kerr Avenue will be worked on as part of the DOT’s 2014 widening of Kerr Avenue.

The 15-month project is meant to ease congestion between Kerr Avenue and South College Road, and will also extend the Cross-City Trail from Brailsford Drive to Marlboro Street. It is estimated to cost about $5.6 million.

This will prove a vital link for everyone living in Wilmington. I also noticed that the paving company incorporates their line painting with its road construction. This synergy is amazing and is keeping Wilmington Roads safer. The city council could learn something from this process. I remember that for years paving companys would get around to painting the proper lines weeks or months later, resulting in mass confusion. Keep this company for future road constuction!

About This Blog

Backseat Driver will be your guide to navigating the Cape Fear region. From road closures to traffic backups to transportation news, this blog will be a one-stop shop about how folks get around in Southeastern North Carolina.

I’m Adam Wagner, the StarNews’ transportation reporter. I moved to Wilmington in October 2012, and also cover North Brunswick County. I grew up in Pittsburgh and am a 2012 Ohio University graduate. I love story ideas, so if you see something happening, shoot me an email.